In Science, the Year 5 children are learning about Earth and Space. They learned the order of the planets and used proportion and ratio to make a scaled model of the planets' distances from the sun. They have each researched a planet of their choice as well as designing their own new planet. They then made these new planets using colours, filter paper and water to give the gaseous effect we see on planets.

In our Fine Motor lessons this week we have had lots of fun. We have been practicing writing patterns with our eyes closed, using charcoal. We also did some work with peg boards, threaded beads and used different pens to practice letter formations. The highlight was building things with lego using only one hand (the hand we write with).

In Individuals and Societies, the MYP 2 students are discovering what life was like in the Middle Ages in various parts of the world. After looking at the Saxons and the Vikings, we have turned our attention to the Normans, and the invasion of England by William the Conqueror. We examined the way in which William ruled his lands and this led us on to look at Norman 'motte and bailey' castles. Heavy snowfall gave the students the opportunity to undertake some outdoor learning - building Norman castles - with nothing but snow to use as their raw material. They had great fun - and learnt about castles at the same time!

After many requests from the MYP 2 and 3, they finally had the opportunity to play the game Loup Garou this week in French. The teachers mixed the beginner, intermediate and advanced groups. Mathieu, from the advanced group, was a wonderful narrator during this session and he allowed the students to listen to a French-speaking person from their age. 

This game can be played with 8 to 47 players and it allows the students to practise their communication and listening skills. The students had a great time in a French-speaking environment!